Gajar ka Achaar (Carrot Pickle)

Ingredients:

• 500 grams carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
• 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• 1 teaspoon nigella seeds (kalonji)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup mustard oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar (optional, for extra sourness)
• 2-3 tablespoons water (for fermentation)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Carrots:
   • Wash, peel, and cut the carrots into sticks or small pieces.
   • Spread them on a clean kitchen towel to dry completely. Moisture can spoil the pickle, so ensure the carrots are completely dry.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
   • In a dry skillet, lightly toast the mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and fenugreek seeds until fragrant. Let them cool.
   • Grind the toasted seeds coarsely using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrot sticks, ground spices, nigella seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
   • Add the mustard oil to the mixture and mix well until all the carrot pieces are well coated with the spices and oil.
4. Ferment the Pickle:
   • Transfer the carrot mixture into a clean, dry glass jar or ceramic container.
   • Press down the carrots to remove any air pockets. Add a little water if needed to cover the carrots and aid in fermentation.
   • Close the jar with a tight-fitting lid or cover with a clean cloth and secure with a rubber band.
   • Place the jar in a warm, sunny spot for 3-4 days, stirring the mixture once a day with a clean, dry spoon. The pickle will start to ferment, developing a tangy flavor.
5. Add Lemon Juice or Vinegar (Optional):
   • After 3-4 days, add the lemon juice or vinegar to the pickle for extra sourness, if desired. Mix well.
6. Store and Serve:
   • Once the pickle has fermented to your liking, store it in the refrigerator to slow down the fermentation process.
   • Serve the Gajar ka Achaar as a tangy and spicy condiment with your meals.

Benefits: Gajar ka Achaar is rich in probiotics from the fermentation process, which supports gut health and aids digestion. Carrots provide dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while the mustard seeds and oil add anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Nutritive Value (per serving, 1 tablespoon):

• Calories: Approximately 20-30 kcal
• Protein: 0.5 grams
• Carbohydrates: 2-3 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Fats: 1-2 grams (mainly from mustard oil)
• Vitamins: Good source of vitamin A (from carrots).
• Minerals: Contains calcium, potassium, and iron.

Enjoy this spicy and sour Gajar ka Achaar as a flavorful addition to your meals, enhancing both taste and nutrition!